India’s javelin star Neeraj Chopra delivered another podium finish at the Diamond League 2025 Final in Zurich, securing second place behind Germany’s Julian Weber, who produced a stunning season-best performance.
Neeraj Chopra, the 2022 Diamond League champion, recorded a best throw of 85.01m on his sixth and final attempt, edging past 2012 Olympic gold medallist Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad and Tobago, who settled for third with 84.95m. Despite his consistent run at the top level, Chopra had to settle for runner-up in the Diamond League Finals for the third consecutive year after 2023 and 2024.
The spotlight, however, belonged to Julian Weber, who unleashed two massive 90m-plus throws. His winning effort of 91.57m not only marked his personal best but also stood as the world’s leading throw this season. With such dominance, Weber finished more than six metres ahead of Chopra, sealing his maiden Diamond League crown.
For Chopra, it was an unusual outing. Known for his consistent 88m-plus throws, the Olympic and World Champion managed only three legal attempts out of six. He opened with 84.35m, followed it with 82m, and committed fouls before saving his campaign with the 85.01m effort in the final round.
Reflecting on the event, Chopra admitted: “Not too bad, but I still need to throw further before Tokyo. I’m happy for Julian — he was excellent today.”
Despite the result, Chopra’s consistency remains unmatched — he has not finished outside the top two since June 2021. With the World Championships in Tokyo (September 13–21, 2025) fast approaching, India’s golden boy remains focused on reclaiming global glory, reminding fans that championships are about medals, not just distances.